Savings Announced for Ohio's Medicare Open Enrollment

Ohio Lieutenant Governor and Department of Insurance Director Mary Taylor has announced savings realized by Medicare enrollees during last fall's annual Medicare Open Enrollment period. Specifically, the Ohio Department of Insurance's Ohio Senior Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) helped consumers save $757,000 during the nearly eight week open enrollment period.

"The savings and outreach provided by the Department this year demonstrate our strong commitment to consumers, "Taylor said. "Consumers also demonstrated they like choices in coverage and that when given answers to their questions regarding those choices, they chose the plan that best meets their unique needs."

Open enrollment, which ran from October 15 to December 7, provided enrollees with an opportunity to examine their plans and determine if changes were needed to their health coverage or prescription drug plans. During the open enrollment period, OSHIIP made more than 16,000 contacts with consumers whether by phone or in person at Medicare Check-up events held across the state.

In fact, OSHIIP held more than 100 events across Ohio leading up to and during Medicare Open Enrollment. At least one event was held in each county giving enrollees and their families an opportunity to meet face-to-face with OSHIIP counselors in order to conduct plan comparisons and review coverage options.

If you or a family member has questions or concerns regarding Medicare, please contact the Ohio Department of Insurance by calling toll free at 1-800-686-1578, or by visiting the Department website at www.insurance.ohio.gov.